Manchester
Sacha Lord ‘punched and attacked’ for his views on reopening hospitality
He tweeted about the incident last night
Manchester hospitality supremo Sacha Lord was reportedly punched and attacked last night for his stance on reopening hospitality.
Over the last few months, the Night Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester has been fighting for the UK’s nightlife industry to reopen as early as non-essential retail – and managed to make a lot of noise in parliament in the process.
However, it seems not everyone agrees with the Parklife and The Warehouse Project founder’s views on reopening our pubs and clubs.
Taking to Twitter last night, Sacha wrote: “Sadly, tonight I was punched and attacked regarding my views on reopening. I’m fine, but Demi is beside herself. What sort of a world are we living in?”
Demi is Sacha’s other half, who was reportedly present at the time of the attack.
In a follow up tweet this morning, Sacha wrote: “Thank you so much for all the kind words of support. Totally humbled.
“I’ll always speak up for what I believe in and fight for Hospitality.”
Sacha Lord has been a prominent figure in Greater Manchester for many years.
Tens of thousands of people have experienced some of the best nights of their lives as a result of his industry leading events – such as the many seasons of The Warehouse Project and over ten years of Parklife Festival.
However, his mission to get pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants reopened at the same time as non-essential retail – arguing that hospitality poses no greater risk than shops – has put him at the forefront of the lockdown fight here in Greater Manchester.
It’s estimated that the delay in reopening indoor hospitality has cost the sector roughly £7 billion over the five weeks in which businesses had to remain closed. It has also left thousands of industry staff unemployed.
Sacha claimed that the government had been unable to provide evidence for their reasoning behind their roadmap (and decision to delay the reopening of hospitality), and took to social media to confirm that his case was with a High Court Judge.
His fight saw him leading the charge on national TV, in newspapers, and on his social media accounts – with thousands rallying behind his cause. However, ultimately, the High Court ruled against him.
Thankfully, tomorrow, on Monday 17 May, indoor hospitality will finally reopen its doors and welcome customers back into their businesses.
With industry-leading COVID safety measures in place, it’s a time for the sector to once again prove itself as a safe space during a very uncertain time.
Lots of restauranteurs have gone to great lengths to keep staff and diners happy and safe during this next phase, however, if you’re worried, make sure you call your local restaurant or pub to check what changes have been made.
It’s been a tough year and a half for the sector, but there is finally some light at the end of the tunnel – it’s now time to support them during this hugely important moment.
Featured image – Darren Robinson Photography
Manchester
Iconic Manchester nightclub Panacea reopens as IKaro, a new grill and champagne bar
The Manc
This week, an iconic Manchester venue will reopen its doors with a brand new concept.
The legendary city centre nightclub known as Panacea is about to reopen as IKaro, a new grill and champagne bar on John Dalton Street.
The move follows an application for planning permission earlier this year and sees a new team into the former popular celebrity hotspot Panacea, which has been closed since 2015.
At the restaurant, diners will find two menus focusing on two different elements, fire and ice. On the first, you’ll find Grilled Lobster Tails, Japanese A5 Wagyu Ribeye, and Australian Wagyu Tomahawk.
On the second an array of Sushi and Sashimi such as Torched Hand Dived Scallops and Bluefin Tuna Otoro.
Behind the menus are talented sushi chef, Lattawan Buchanan, who’s spent time at popular restaurants Ivy Asia and former ‘Masterchef: The Professionals’ finalist, Exose Grant.
Head Chef Exose Grant, said, “Our menu showcases the best of the land and sea. We’ll be using fresh, quality produce in the best possible way. Innovative and impeccably presented dishes that don’t compromise on flavour.”
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Behind the bar, you’ll find countless varieties of Champagne including a frequently changing sommelier’s selection of rare bottles which, in keeping with the venue’s reputation as a go-to late-night haunt, will be served up until doors close at 2.30am.
Head of bars, Sean McGuirk, said: “Alongside our extensive ‘by the bottle’ offering, you can expect elevated classic cocktails, as well as some uniquely extravagant options.
“Our team will play with flavours and theatrics to deliver an experience like no other.”
IKaro will mark its launch with a VIP event on Saturday 23 September before doors open to the public on Wednesday 27 September.
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Company director, Zack Issak, said, “It’s long overdue that this popular space opened its doors once more and we’re thrilled to be able to do that.
“IKaro will create an unforgettable experience from start to finish. Guests will enjoy a choice of the world’s finest Champagnes, paired with the best Wagyu steaks and seafood on the market.”
Bookings for the intimate, 84-cover restaurant, are open now and can be made online at www.ikaro.co.uk for Wednesday 27 September onwards.
Featured image – The Manc Group
Manchester
Marcus Rashford gives update after car crash on way home from Manchester United training ground
Emily Sergeant
Marcus Rashford has given a health update after getting into a car crash on his way home from Manchester United’s training ground.
After the Red Devils managed to secure a 1-0 away win over the fellow North West side Burnley in a Premier League clash on Saturday, thanks to a goal in the 45th minute by Portuguese attacker Bruno Fernandes, the players then left for Manchester and made their way back on the team bus to the club’s training facility.
But once the team had arrived at Carrington, and then all departed to make their separate ways home, Marcus Rashford was confirmed to have been involved in a road traffic collision with another vehicle.
According to reports in The Sun newspaper, the Wythenshawe-born winger had just left Carrington in his Rolls Royce – which is believed to be a market value of £700,000 – when the incident happened.
It’s believed some damage was sustained to the luxury vehicle.
Pictures and footage – which showed the extent of the crash damage – began emerging online following the incident, but it’s understood that no ambulance was required at the scene, and the 25-year-old walked away “unhurt”, Sky News reports.
Now, the 25-year-old footballer has now spoken out for the first time on social media following the incident.
Breaking his silence after the horrific crash on Instagram, Rashford assured fans he was okay with the short-but- simple message: “3 points on the road! I’m alright guys, thanks for the messages.”
Read more:
Although no confirmation on team selection has been revealed, with Rashford having sustained no injuries during the collision, many fans are expecting him to still be in the lineup when Manchester United face Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup tomorrow (26 September).
Featured Image – Manchester United
